UFC Fight Night 248 promises an electrifying night of mixed martial arts, taking place at the state-of-the-art Galaxy Arena in Macau on Saturday. Fans can catch all the action live with round-by-round coverage as early as 3 a.m. ET for the preliminary bouts, while the main card kicks off at 6 a.m. ET on ESPN+. This event marks a significant occasion for fighters looking to ascend in their divisions, with intriguing matchups set to unfold.
The headlining fight features former bantamweight champion Petr Yan square off against former flyweight champion Deiveson Figueiredo. Yan, with a record of 17 wins and 5 losses (9-4 in the UFC), is finding his footing again after experiencing setbacks in the competitive bantamweight division. On the other hand, Figueiredo, boasting an impressive 24-3-1 MMA record (13-3-1 UFC), is eager to regain momentum after his earlier reign as champion. This matchup signifies a clash of striking styles where Yan’s calculated technique meets Figueiredo’s explosive aggression.
The co-main event also champions excitement as women’s strawweight competitor Yan Xiaonan takes on Tabatha Ricci. Yan, with a solid record of 18-4 (8-3 UFC), is coming off a hard-fought title challenge that placed her in the spotlight. Conversely, Ricci enters the octagon with enthusiasm, holding an 11-2 MMA record (6-2 UFC), and aims to spoil Yan’s aspirations. This bout not only serves as a pivotal moment for both fighters, but it also showcases the rising talent within the women’s strawweight division.
The preliminary card is set to spotlight several aspiring fighters determined to make a name for themselves. Notable bouts include Balgyn Jenisuly versus Su Young You, as well as Dong Hoon Choi against Kiru Sahota. These matchups are crucial for fighters looking to secure their spot within the UFC ranks and demonstrate their prowess on the international stage.
Additionally, the evening will unfold with exciting pairings such as Song Kenan’s bout against Muslim Salikhov, and a confrontation featuring Volkan Oezdemir and Carlos Ulberg. Each participant brings their unique set of skills and strategic approaches, making these early fights just as vital in determining future contenders.
As excitement builds for UFC Fight Night 248, fans can eagerly anticipate a card filled with compelling matchups and the possibility of unforgettable finishes. With the stakes higher than ever, both seasoned fighters and emerging talents have a unique opportunity to shine this weekend in Macau. The event not only symbolizes the culmination of hard work and dedication but also marks a chapter in the dynamic world of UFC that fans won’t want to miss.